944Fest (aka Dan P)

I've heard stories of 944's in fender benders (track enviroment) that start smoking IMMEDIATELY after the hit from the hood right above the battery.. Anyone who knows these cars would alert the fire crew to the problem. 3 fixxes, two fairly easy, really should be done to our cars to prevent this.
1. Bolt down the battery VERY securely. Just because the new batt doesn't fit the old clamps is not a reason to leave it loose. figure out SOMETHING!
2. Tape up the "pizza table" to make sure it doesn't go anywhere.
3. Install a batt cutout switch. Required by PCA club race, but may not solve the problem if the short is right at the terminal.

zeusrotty

Hey guys, bringing back a very old thread. I was working on the car the other night and I touched the positive battery terminal to the side of the car with a wrench. Then after getting a new battery, I hooked it up and everything was good. I didn't use any electricity and woke up this morning to a dead battery. It's fried. Could I have messed up the alternator with the crossing the positive terminal to the side of the car with the wrench? and now the bad alternator is frying battery's?

Voith

Use OJOP terminals. By far the best solution for this problem.

Trekintosh

It's even better when you have two batteries and a faulty ground separator like in my RV. Many amps straight into the battery tray. Burned a hole right through it.

Tiger03447

Ford trucks and cars used to do this also..always hook up the negative cable LAST. Batteries have enough amperage to arc weld with,(there are kits for this). A glove is on the battery hand is a good thing too, and take off your rings and any bracelets on your hands and arms when working with batteries..It leaves a nasty scar when you get it between the battery terminal and the coachwork..turns red hot in a second...don't ask me how I know..

curtisr

Probably the voltage regulator was fried. Been there done that.

It's number 2 in the diagram: